News 23 Oct 2017

Van der Mark confirmed for Monster Yamaha Tech3 in Malaysia

Second MotoGP opportunity arises for WorldSBK regular.

Source: Supplied.

WorldSBK regular Michael van der Mark has received the call up to replace Jonas Folger at Monster Yamaha Tech 3 for the Malaysian grand prix this weekend, indicating Australian Broc Parkes’ appearance with the team was strictly a one-off appearance for the Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

Van der Mark was initially chosen to replace the then injured Valentino Rossi at Movistar Yamaha for Aragon, however with the multi-time champion making a courageous comeback, his debut in the premier championship was denied.

The Dutchman will ride in place of Folger, who’s been sidelined since the Japanese grand prix with a mystery illness, and will join former replacement riders Parkes and Kohta Nozane.

“It goes without saying that I am really excited,” said van der Mark. “I came quite close to getting the opportunity to ride a MotoGP bike a few weeks ago, but it didn’t work out. Then HervĂ© called, and although I will have a busy schedule, I could not say no to this chance.

“I am very happy and I look forward to this adventure. Luckily, I know Sepang, but the MotoGP riders have done a lot of tests there this year, so everyone will be fast. However, I just want to enjoy this weekend, to improve myself and see how it is to ride the YZR-M1.

“At the moment, we have some good momentum in WorldSBK so I think it is the perfect time to jump on the Yamaha. I look forward to riding the bike and I want to thank HervĂ© and Yamaha for this opportunity.”

It’s not yet determined whether Folger will return to action for the series finale at Valencia, which is scheduled for 12 November.

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